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Saturday Fulham Stuff - 23/01/21...

Started by WhiteJC, January 23, 2021, 12:28:16 AM

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WhiteJC

Fulham might just have the next Wijnaldum, Sissoko glow up

Fulham have a prime candidate for a sort of Georginio Wijnaldum or Moussa Sissoko glow up within their ranks.

For one player to rank so highly in diametrically opposing statistics is rare. Josh Brownhill has made the most interceptions of anyone in the Premier League this season but is behind 77 other players in terms of attempted passes. No-one has had more shots than Harry Kane but 72 of his peers have made more clearances. Jack Grealish has created the most chances while blocking only a single shot, far behind leader Federico Fernandez and his four key passes.

It was a Luka Milivojevic free-kick, for those wondering.

But as someone signed for £22.3m two months after playing in a Europa League final, only to be relegated and loaned out for a season by the same club that is now using his distinctive skill set as the foundation for another battle to survive, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa is used to defying stereotypes and plotting new paths to progression at Fulham.

The 25-year-old is second in the Premier League for successful dribbles – third overall in Europe's top five divisions – and fourth for completed tackles so far this season. Only Adama Traore beats him with regards to the former; he is joint-168th when it comes to the latter. And watching Aaron Wan-Bissaka, James McArthur and Oriol Romeu does not bring Garrincha to mind.

Nor does Zambo-Anguissa evoke particular thoughts of explosive and tricky Brazilian wingers in fairness. The central midfielder is more silk and steel, six-foot and sexy feet, style and substance. He is a divine combination of class and mass. His closest comparison is surely the part ballet dancer, part bulldozer who once graced this very Cottage, although it is far from an exact parallel.

There were moments when he was a step above for Fulham against Manchester United. The assist for Ademola Lookman's opening goal was simple yet beautiful in its execution, a turn and pass made easier by a chasmic defence, but one which ensured the forward did not have to check his run and could simply accept the ball in his stride. Then with the scores level just after the half-hour mark, Anguissa collected Joe Bryan's pass, drove forward into an accommodating midfield and played Ivan Cavaleiro in cleverly behind Wan-Bissaka. The Portuguese's appalling touch and non-finish brought the move to an abrupt and annoying close.



Anguissa is far from perfect. He often overplays it and delays the pass too long out of unerring self-belief in his ability to retain possession under any challenge. Both United goals could be traced back to him in some form: his pass put Kenny Tete under duress from Fred that resulted in Bruno Fernandes' cross, before he perhaps understandably opted not to press Paul Pogba in a shooting position on his weaker foot from an acute angle outside the area.

These are flaws and deficiencies Scott Parker should address while being careful not to dilute what makes Anguissa so effective. It would be a mistake to coach him into a safety-first defensive midfielder that constantly recycles the ball or a sentry simply sitting in front of the back four. His natural instincts and flair should be nurtured instead of neutered. It is a difficult balance to strike.

What makes him so compelling are those imperfections, with Harrison Reed an excellent midfield foil alongside him. In Anguissa, Fulham have a player perhaps not unique in the Premier League as a whole, but completely and utterly different to anything else in the bottom six scrap. He and Lookman in particular give them a real chance of avoiding the same fate that befell him during that turbulent 2018/19 season.

Most had written him off on the basis of that campaign alone as an expensive import not cut out for the tempo of the Premier League. Yet injuries robbed him of consistency, Slavisa Jokanovic and Claudio Ranieri struggled to work out how to use him best if at all, and only upon Parker's appointment in February 2019 was he granted faith and a regular run of games.

A year on loan at Villarreal helped restore the confidence that flowed through him on Wednesday and has done for most of the season. Anguissa's second campaign in England's top flight might well end in another fall to the Championship but much like the first, he won't be personally accompanying Fulham on that trip down.

He has far too much quality and artistry for that. Anguissa is an undoubted Premier League standard player, a prime candidate for a sort of Moussa Sissoko or Georginio Wijnaldum glow up of a midfielder from the lower reaches of the table thriving with a member of the elite when surrounded by better players more on his level.

There are but a few questions left: can Josh Brownhill intercept his own passes? Is Harry Kane able to clear his own shots? Would Anguissa the tackler be able to thwart Anguissa the dribbler? The answer to the first two hypotheticals is obvious; in the case of the third it would certainly be a closer battle and a damn fine sight to watch.



https://www.football365.com/news/opinion-zambo-anguissa-wijnaldum-sissoko-fulham

WhiteJC

Ligue 1 Side Nice Enquire About Fulham Midfielder Jean Michael Seri

Ligue 1 side Nice have enquired about the availability of out-of-favour Fulham midfielder Jean Michael Seri, according to Sky Sports. The 29-year-old's future was already in doubt after the midfielder was omitted from Fulham's 25-man Premier League squad.

Nice Enquire About Seri
A Return on the Cards for the Midfielder

Ligue 1 Side Nice Enquire About Fulham Midfielder Jean Michael Seri
By: Varun Nair | January 22, 2021

Ligue 1 side Nice have enquired about the availability of out-of-favour Fulham midfielder Jean Michael Seri, according to Sky Sports. The 29-year-old's future was already in doubt after the midfielder was omitted from Fulham's 25-man Premier League squad.
Nice Enquire About Seri
A Return on the Cards for the Midfielder

Jean Michael Seri made established himself as one of the best young players during his time at Nice. The midfielder made 123 appearances and scored 12 goals during three seasons at the club. The Ivorian, though, have not been able to replicate his form since.

Seri has hardly had a sniff in the Fulham first team this season. The midfielder last has not played a Premier League match in more than one-and-a-half years with his last appearance coming against Bournemouth in May 2019. The 29-year old spent the last season on loan at Galatasaray but has made just two appearances this season, with both of them coming in the EFL Cup.

Fulham's decision to omit the midfielder from their 25-man squad earlier in the season had almost put the writing on the wall for the midfielder. The 29-year-old now looks set to move out of the club on loan during the transfer window.

Seri on the Radar of Several Clubs
Jean Michael Seri is a man in demand this January. According to Lyall Thomas, the midfielder is also attracting interest from Ligue 1 rivals, Bordeaux. Portuguese giants Benfica and FC Porto are other names that are looking to sign the out-of-favour midfielder.

FC Porto is one of Seri's three former teams looking to bring back the midfielder. The 29-year-old Ivorian had spent a season on loan with the reserve side of FC Porto but moved to Pacos de Ferreira after the completion of his loan deal in 2013.

Galatasaray, who had the midfielder on loan last season, have been in talks with the midfielder. But, the Turkish giants are yet to agree on a deal for the 29-year-old.



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2021/01/22/ligue-1-side-nice-enquire-about-fulham-midfielder-jean-michael-seri/

WhiteJC

'We Need To Rectify Those Mistakes' - Lookman Disappointed Despite Strike Vs

Ademola Lookman was understandably disappointed in the wake of Fulham's 2-1 loss to Manchester United in an English Premier League clash on Wednesday despite getting on the scoresheet.

The Super Eagles hopeful showed brilliant composure to give the Cottagers the lead in the 5th minute, drilling the ball into the bottom corner after he was played onside by Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

An Edinson Cavani goal following an error by goalkeeper Alphonse Areola and a Paul Pogba wonderstrike secured three points for the Red Devils.

"I'm just disappointed really, especially having taken the lead. The goals we conceded, we could do a lot better on those," Lookman told Fulham's official website.

"We know that as players, so we need to rectify those mistakes."

Lookman refused to accept personal praise for his goal as Fulham eventually did not get anything from the game.

He added : "We didn't get the three points. To me, the three points is more important than my goal."

Up next for Lookman and Fulham, they host Burnley in the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup on Sunday before trips to Brighton and West Brom in the Premier League.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=38697


WhiteJC

Race The Euros


Join the Fulham Squad to take on 13 other football clubs in London and raise funds for Fulham FC Foundation, with the Race the Euros Virtual Challenge 2021.

The Race the Euros event will see 14 London football clubs race across Europe in a virtual activity challenge. Working in squads of 23, each Club will aim to be the fastest to cover the 6,720 miles that separate all of the Euro 2021 host cities.

The event is currently scheduled to run during March and participants can log miles in nearly 80 different activities (subject to any Government guidelines). We will be monitoring the government guidance on exercise and outdoor activities over the next few weeks and are constantly reviewing and adapting the list of approved activities to make sure that the challenge can be completed safely and in line with all legislation.

When the challenge is live, an event portal will chart the progress of each Club team. And as each squad reaches a host city, information about that city and its footballing history will be unlocked.

All funds raised from the event will support Fulham FC Foundation's work in the community through investment into solution-focused projects, tackling some of the biggest challenges facing our community today, including social isolation and health inequalities.

The Fulham FC Foundation has been working hard to adapt their services to support the local community during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes delivering over 500 hours of online sessions and providing a telephone befriending service to those most isolated. To date, the Foundation have made over a 1,000 calls and received multiple referrals from local care networks.

However, there are many more people in need of support and for many months to come as the impact of Covid-19 continues to impact our communities and our people, affecting both their physical and mental health. To secure a place in the Race the Euros Virtual Event 2021, you will need to pay £10 entry fee and commit to raising £100 in sponsorship (excluding Gift Aid).

Join the Squad!

To find out more information, please email: [email protected]



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/january/Race-The-Euros/

WhiteJC

Scott Parker looking to shift three Fulham players during the current transfer window

The January transfer window could be pivotal for Fulham in their fight to avoid relegation straight back down to the Championship after one season.

Scott Parker has, belatedly, got the west Londoners playing a decent brand of football, however, there's still a lot of work to be done.

Part of that process will require new faces coming in, and some leaving the club.

To that end, Sky Sports are reporting that Stefan Johansen, Maxime Le Marchand and Jean Michael Seri are up for sale in this window.

Seri may well end up back at Galatasaray, where he spent last season on loan, whilst Johansen, who wasn't included in Parker's Premier League squad for the first half of the season, could be on the way to Queens Park Rangers.

Nice, the club from whom Fulham signed Le Marchand, are thought to be interested in taking the player back to France.

At present, Fulham remain in the Premier League's bottom three, and are five points adrift of safety.

Parker certainly has his work cut out if he wants the Cottagers to retain their top-flight status at the end of this season.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2021/01/22/scott-parker-looking-to-shift-three-fulham-players-during-the-current-transfer-window/

WhiteJC

Potentially pivotal factor in QPR's pursuit of Fulham man emerges

QPR's hopes of signing Fulham midfielder Stefan Johansen on loan may hinge on whether an affordable wage percentage can be agreed, according to The Athletic.

It emerged earlier this week that the R's were keen on signing the 30-year-old on a temporary deal, with his opportunities at Craven Cottage having dried up this season after being left out of their 25-man Premier League squad.

A report from The Athletic has provided some more insight into the situation, revealing that manager Mark Warburton is thought to be an admirer of Johansen.

It is understood, however, that the finances of the deal could be pivotal and that the R's hopes of signing the Norway international may hinge on whether they can negotiate an affordable wage percentage.

According to Sportrac, the 30-year-old's current salary is £10,000-per-week.

Injuries to Tom Carroll and Luke Amos have left the Championship outfit in need of reinforcements in central areas, while Warburton has indicated they're hoping to sign two new midfielders this month.

In Johansen, they'd be landing a player with significant Championship experience and someone that has thrived at that level in the past.

The Verdict

It seems that negotiating affordable terms is going to be pivotal for the R's as they look to take Johansen on loan from Fulham.

The Craven Cottage outfit will likely want their west London rivals to take as high a percentage of his wage as possible, though they may not want to price them out of a deal completely as any financial relief is a boost in the current circumstances.

The good news for the R's is that with reported wages of around £10,000 per week, they should be able to stretch to paying a relatively high portion of the Norway international's salary.

Signing the midfielder on loan looks like a shrewd bit of business, supporters will be hoping they can get the deal done over the next 10 days.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/potentially-pivotal-factor-in-qprs-pursuit-of-fulham-man-emerges/


WhiteJC

Report: Finances threaten QPR's hopes of signing top Warburton target this month

Mark Warburton is a big fan of Stefan Johansen, but it remains to be seen whether Queens Park Rangers can afford to sign the Fulham midfielder on loan, as reported by The Athletic.

While Fulham are dealing with a surplus of quality play-makers, it is fair to say QPR are in a very different situation.

After losing the talismanic Ebere Eze to Crystal Palace over the summer, Rangers have looked devoid of creativity or cutting edge in the centre of the park. A fact reflected by their tally of 23 goals in 24 Championship matches so far in 2020/21.

Johansen, the Norway captain who has twice earned promotion from the second-tier, would at least help to fill an Eze-shaped void in Warburton's midfield.

The former Celtic dynamo is free to leave Craven Cottage this month after being left out of Scott Parker's 25-man Premier League squad.

His agent told TV2 recently that a fresh start was required too, with Johansen desperate to play regular football again after five months gathering dust on the sidelines.

But, as reported by the Athletic, the finances involved means there is still a long way to go before QPR can celebrate the arrival of a man capable of striking up a fine partnership with the talented Ilias Chair in Warburton's engine room.

The Loftus Road outfit would have to take over Johansen's £10,000-a-week wages, or at least provide a substantial contribution, if they want to agree a loan deal until the summer.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/01/22/report-finances-threaten-qprs-hopes-of-signing-top-warburton-target-this-month/

WhiteJC

Blackburn Rovers given foothold in pursuit of Fulham's Stefan Johansen as QPR face stumbling block

The Athletic reports that QPR's loan pursuit of Fulham midfielder Stefan Johansen will boil down to finances, with Blackburn Rovers also in the running.

QPR have this week been tipped to sign Johansen on loan for the remainder of the season. The 30-year-old's only two appearances this season have come in the EFL Cup having fallen out of favour under Scott Parker in the Premier League.

Soon after, Blackburn Rovers were credited with a loan interest as well. Now it looks as though Blackburn Rovers could have a foothold in the race for Johansen after The Athletic suggested that QPR could struggle to 'secure an affordable wage percentage'.

The pressure is on Warburton to find a short-term replacement for Tom Carroll. He's been ruled out for three months in what is a huge blow to Warburton, with Carroll having quietly gone about his season to become a key player in this QPR side.

Johansen fits the bill – he's a very similar type player in that he'll cover a lot of ground, make neat and tidy passes in the build up and so on.

The former Celtic man has some more experience than Carroll though and is a lot more useful going forward too, and so Johansen could prove to be a shrewd signing for QPR.

Blackburn could yet scupper their plans – Tony Mowbray's side have proved indifferent this season and having started to plug holes in their defence, Rovers are seemingly keen on bolstering other positions.

If QPR can muster enough wages to bring in Johansen then they'll remain favourites to sign him given their locality to Fulham. But with the current financial situation for most in the Football League, it remains unseen whether QPR can do so.



https://the72.co.uk/216701/blackburn-rovers-have-a-foothold-in-pursuit-of-fulhams-stefan-johansen-as-qpr-face-potential-stumbling-block/

WhiteJC

Premier League club 'one step ahead' of West Ham, Southampton and Fulham for signing

Portuguese newspaper A Bola today features a piece saying the English chase for Sporting winger Jovane Cabral is still on.

They recall that the player has been wanted by Premier League sides for a while now. Especially by West Ham, who made a bid and failed to agree a deal for his transfer last summer.

The outlet then claims that the likes of Fulham and Southampton also became interested in the signing, although neither of them presented an offer for the 22-year-old.

Now, according to the report, there's a fourth side joining this battle. A Bola couldn't get the name of the club, but says they're preparing a €15m bid which could be enough for a deal.

A Bola reports this unnamed club are now 'one step ahead' of West Ham, Fulham and Southampton, and Jovane's transfer to the Premier League could happen in the next week.

The winger has six goals and two assists for Sporting this season, and with no advance in the talks for a new deal, his departure starts looking more likely.

Now as we wait for the name of the Premier League club to be revealed, perhaps there's still time for West Ham, Fulham or Southampton to raise their bids.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/premier-league-club-one-step-ahead-west-ham-southampton-fulham-signing/


WhiteJC

Every word Scott Parker said on Fulham's transfer struggles, Burnley and injury concerns

The Whites welcome their relegation rivals to Craven Cottage for the FA Cup Fourth Round

How is the squad?

Everyone is fine coming out of a tricky period, obviously some tired legs and general stuff. No real injury concerns, a full bill of health really.

Burnley's win impressive?

A big win, a massive win for Burnley. In terms of going to Liverpool it's clear. The game at the weekend is going to be a big, tough game. That's what Burnley possess, they're always in games and they're a real good outfit in that sense.

Both feel league games are more important? Think about teams in a different way for the cup?

Yeah, I can't speak for Sean but I'm sure it's along them lines. Of course, the main aim for us this year is the league but in saying that the cup competition, the FA Cup, I hold in high regard. I have memories as a young player as well and as a young boy. This weekend gives me an opportunity to freshen up some things, give players who have not had that opportunity some game time while resting some others as well.

We want to win the game at the weekend and get through to the next round and then face Bournemouth or Crawley. That's our aim.

How will team selection be impacted?

Like anything a managers are always looking in advance. You always work backwards from games. There's an eye on what we've got coming up, timescales, levels of player's fitness, where they and who can handle games coming up, who needs rest, who needs games. They're all factors what I'm deciding on, and I won't be the only one.

Just because it's a cup this week, there's always that decision to be made because the games are coming every 2/3 days and you have to keep an eye on that.

Concerned about picking up injuries? How much are you doing to cope with it catching up with you?

It's a concern. We've come out of a tough time only 10 days ago where half the squad was down with COVID and we get back and there's a game straight away and having to put players into positions with hardly any work going into the Premier League - the fastest league in the world.

You're always wary of that. The way we structure training, plan things and the staff who are responsible for that physical stuff, at this time we're in a good place with the work we've done previous to this and our training during the week, we're ok. With games coming up so fast and the point of the season we're getting up to with the accumulation of games, and training, you're always on the brink a little bit and it's a balancing act.

At the moment, other than a couple of injuries we have and the COVID we had 10 days ago, we're alright. I'm not going to lie about it, there's always that in the back of your head.

Any news on transfers?

Not at the moment, there's nothing I can give you that's remotely close. We all know it's a tough window but at the same time we all realise where we need to add to the team to help the team, help the players, help us this year. It's not for the want of trying but at the moment it's difficult.

View on European Super League idea and FIFA's response?

I didn't expect the question and I haven't paid any interest in it whatsoever. I would be blind going answering the question and reluctant to go into depth. It seems a little bit speculation in terms of asking to comment on players missing world cups when it seems a bit of a dream - I might be wrong in what I'm saying there. I just don't have the information.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-transfer-news-burnley-fa-19681733

WhiteJC

Pre-FA Cup Press Conference

Scott Parker will field a side that he believes can progress to the Fifth Round of the Emirates FA Cup on Sunday.

Next week represents a big one for Fulham in the Premier League and Parker will select his team accordingly, but he insists the FA Cup is a competition that he has the utmost respect for.

"I can't speak for Sean [Dyche], but of course I think the main aim this year for us is the league, but in saying that, the FA Cup is a competition that I hold in real high regard, with the memories I have as a young player and a young boy," he explained.

"This weekend gives me an opportunity to maybe freshen up some things, give some game time to players who have not had those opportunities, while resting some others as well ahead of a busy period that we're coming into.

"But look, I want to win the game at the weekend, we want to get through to the next round, we'd then face Bournemouth or Crawley if we do get through, so that's our aim."

Burnley go into the weekend's Fourth Round tie buoyed by a superb victory at Anfield on Thursday, but Parker was already expecting a stern test against the Clarets.

"It was a big win, a massive win for Burnley," he said. "The game at the weekend was always going to be a big, tough game.

"That's what Burnley possess and that's what they give. They're always in games, they're a real good outfit in that sense, and you saw that last night."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/january/Pre-FA-Cup-Press-Conference/

WhiteJC

Scott Parker admits Fulham are not "remotely close" to January signings

Scott Parker admits Fulham are currently not "remotely close" to bolstering their squad during the January transfer window.

After securing promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs at the start of August, Parker made 11 additions to his first-team squad in a bid to improve the team and secure top-flight survival.

Fulham had a disappointing start to the season while the new squad adjusted to life in the Premier League, with Parker's men conceding 12 goals in their opening five league matches.

Since then however, Parker's men have tightened up at the back, with just five goals scored against them in their last seven matches.

Although the Cottagers have struggled at the other end of the pitch, finding the net only four times in their last seven. Ivan Cavaleiro has played through the centre of a front three but he has netted just twice and Parker says adding to his squad before the window closes is proving a struggle.

"At the moment there's nothing I can give you that is remotely close," the Fulham boss said.

"I think we all know it's a tough window – at the same time I think we all realise where we probably need to add to the team to help the team, help the players, help us this year.

"But like I said, we're trying and it's not for the will of trying, but at the moment it's proving a little bit difficult."

Fulham host Burnley in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday, with Sean Dyche's men having ended Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run with a shock 1-0 victory on Thursday.

"It was a big win, a massive win for Burnley, going to Liverpool and getting that result," Parker said.

"It's a big win for them and the game at the weekend was always going to be a big tough game, that's what Burnley possess and that's what they give.

"They're always in games and they're a real good outfit in that sense and you could see that last time."

After the weekend's tie, Fulham face a trip to Brighton on Wednesday and the manager believes squad management is critical.

"Look it's a concern, especially what we've come out of, we've come out of a tough time," he added.

"Only 10 days ago where half the squad was down with Covid and then when they came back there was a game straight away and you're having to put players in positions with hardly any work.

"At this present moment in time we're in a good place with the work that we've done previous to this and our training during the week we're okay.

"But of course with the games coming up so fast and at the point in the season where we're getting to now with the accumulation of games and training, you're always on the brink a little bit and it's a balancing act that you're doing."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/burnley/fa-cup/news/scott-parker-admits-fulham-are-not-remotely-close-to-january-signings_431699.html


WhiteJC

Parker: Fulham are 'not remotely close' to signings

Scott Parker has revealed that Fulham are not 'remotely close' to bolstering their strike force in the January transfer window.

The Cottagers' head coach has made clear that he is eager to bring in additional forwards by deadline day – and preferably before – in order to boost Fulham's survival bid. With Aleksandar Mitrovic only returning from a hamstring strain as a late substitute in the defeat by Manchester United on Wednesday, the Whites have been relying on Ivan Cavaleiro as a makeshift number nine, but Parker told his press conference ahead of this weekend's FA Cup tie with Burnley that no new arrivals were imminent.

"At the moment there's nothing I can give you that is remotely close. I think we all know it's a tough window – at the same time I think we all realise where we probably need to add to the team to help the team, help the players, help us this year. But like I said, we're trying and it's not for the will of trying, but at the moment it's proving a little bit difficult."

Parker is still seeking to manage his squad effectively after Fulham battled a coronavirus outbreak immediately after Christmas and is considering rotating his side for the fourth round tie, especially after a run of three games in ten games and with crucial league fixtures against Brighton and West Brom on the horizon.

"Look it's a concern, especially what we've come out of, we've come out of a tough time. Only 10 days ago where half the squad was down with Covid and then when they came back there was a game straight away and you're having to put players in positions with hardly any work."

"At this present moment in time we're in a good place with the work that we've done previous to this and our training during the week we're okay. But of course with the games coming up so fast and at the point in the season where we're getting to now with the accumulation of games and training, you're always on the brink a little bit and it's a balancing act that you're doing."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/parker-fulham-are-not-remotely-close-to-signings/

WhiteJC

Fulham v Burnley


Scott Parker says he is prioritising the Premier League this season

FA Cup fourth round
Dates: 22-25 January Coverage: Manchester United v Liverpool (17:00 GMT) live on BBC One on Sunday 24 January; plus five more games across the BBC.

Fulham boss Scott Parker says squad management is key as his side prepare to host Burnley at Craven Cottage in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday.

Burnley head into the fixture on the back of a famous victory at Liverpool.

Parker says his main aim this season is keeping Fulham in the Premier League and sees the FA Cup as a chance to "freshen some things up".

"Look, it's a concern, especially what we've come out of - we've come out of a tough time," said Parker.

"Only 10 days ago where half the squad was down with Covid and then when they came back there was a game straight away and you're having to put players in positions with hardly any work.

"At this present moment in time we're in a good place with the work that we've done previous to this and our training during the week, we're OK."

Following Sunday's FA Cup tie, Fulham visit Brighton in a crucial Premier League game on Wednesday.

"This weekend gives me an opportunity to maybe freshen up some things, give some game time to players who have not had those opportunities, while resting some others as well ahead of a busy period that we're coming into," added Parker.

'We can offer more in attack'

Neither side has reached the fifth round since 2016-17, but whoever progresses this time will face Bournemouth or Crawley at that stage.

Following their 1-0 victory at Anfield, Burnley boss Sean Dyche says his side can improve in attack.

He has backed starting duo Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes to score more goals but also believes Jay Rodriguez and Matej Vydra can help aid their cause.

"I still think we can offer more in the attacking third," he said.

"We spoke to the strikers the other day; they've not been firing and there's been a few question marks, but I believe in the strikers - there are four by the way.

"I stuck with the two who historically have done well for us and I think they have both got goals in them, but I think the other two have as well."

Match stats

    After winning their first FA Cup meeting with Burnley back in January 1912, Fulham have been eliminated from each their subsequent five ties with the Clarets, most recently in February 2003.
    Burnley have won just one of their last 11 away games against Fulham (D2 L8), winning 3-2 in a Championship fixture in March 2016.
    Burnley have only won one of their last 10 FA Cup ties against Premier League opponents, beating Sunderland 2-0 in January 2017.
    Both sides have reached the FA Cup fifth round in just one of the last nine seasons, doing so in the 2016-17 campaign.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55770065

WhiteJC

Parker adds young duo to Fulham squad for Burnley cup tie

Fulham will ring the changes against Burnley on Sunday – and youngsters Fabio Carvalho and Sylvester Jasper have been added to the squad.

The teenagers were in a separate 'bubble' to the first-team squad, but boss Scott Parker would like them to get exposure to the big time, and maybe come off the bench in the FA Cup tie at Craven Cottage.

"They've both got tested and have come back into our bubble", the head coach explained.

"Both will be involved at the weekend and it may be an opportunity for them. We'll see how they train and go from there."

Otherwise, Parker has a full complement from which to choose, apart from the suspended Antonee Robinson, and the injured Tom Cairney and Terence Kongolo.

Even so, Parker is facing two huge Premier League games next week against Brighton and West Brom, and plans to chop and change his team much as he did in the last round at QPR.

"The main aim is the league, he said. "But this weekend gives the chance to freshen up things and give players what haven't had that opportunity some game time."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/parker-adds-young-duo-to-fulham-squad-for-burnley-cup-tie


WhiteJC

Why Fulham shouldn't hesitate to match Bundesliga side's £15m valuation of this 23-year-old on-loan ace

Why Fulham should sign Ademola Lookman on a permanent deal
According to The Sun, Fulham boss Scott Parker would like to keep Ademola Lookman on a permanent basis. The Leipzig winger is on loan at the newly-promoted side and has impressed in his time there.

However, the German club has refused to budge on their £15million valuation of the player. The problem is that Fulham cannot pay that sum unless they ensure Premier League survival.

Lookman has been in good touch at Fulham
Fulham's transfer activity in the summer window was focused largely on improving the defence and midfield, with Ademola Lookman being the only new attacker to come through the door, on loan from RB Leipzig.

Capable of playing anywhere across the front line, Lookman has added depth and versatility to the squad. His numbers may not be glittering but he definitely has the potential to be a good winger and has experience in the Premier League. In 14 appearances this season, he has scored twice and assisted thrice.

Fulham need to keep him on a permanent basis
At just 23 years of age, Fulham would get a prospective player who can blossom into a fine forward under the right guidance. He has been relatively injury-free throughout his career and it was only certain blips in form that resulted in less game time over the last couple of seasons.

Leipzig have a good number of established wide players like Emil Forsberg and Marcel Sabitzer, and that has also contributed to Lookman being overlooked.

Fulham would surely benefit from a player like Lookman staying for the long run. He is young, versatile and has good potential. Add to that he has Premier League experience. That is something Fulham will surely need this season as well as in the future.

It may look like his £15million valuation is a steep one but such has been the value of young players with good potential. Lookman is a player who looks like he can build on this relatively good season. Even if Fulham end up getting relegated, they shouldn't hesitate to throw in that amount for the youngster.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2021/01/23/why-fulham-should-sign-ademola-lookman-on-a-permanent-deal/

WhiteJC

Carvalho and Jasper earn FA Cup call-up

Fabio Carvalho and Sylvester Jasper could gain more first-team experience in the FA Cup this weekend after Fulham boss Scott Parker included them in his squad for Sunday's meeting with Burnley.

Parker is poised to ring the changes after the Whites completed a gruelling run of three games in seven days and with an eye on two crucial relegation six pointers next week. The teenage duo have both been tested and admitted to the senior squad bubble at Motspur Park in preparation for an opportunity to shine – probably over the bench – against Sean Dyche's side at Craven Cottage this weekend.

Parker told his pre-match press conference earlier this afternoon:

They've both got tested and have come back into our bubble. Both will be involved at the weekend and it may be an opportunity for them. We'll see how they train and go from there.

Nineteen year-old winger Jasper made his professional debut in the FA Cup last season as a substitute in the fourth round defeat at Manchester City. He went on to make two further appearances from the bench in the league and has starred for Fulham's under 23s this term, scoring four times in six league appearances and adding two assists.

England youth international Carvalho, who can play either out wide or as a number ten, was handed his senior bow in the League Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday in September and nearly made an immediate impact by almost scoring with an impudent chip. The prodigiously gifted eighteen year-old has scored eight goals as in as many games for the under 23s this term, adding five assists.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/carvalho-and-jasper-earn-fa-cup-call-up/

WhiteJC

Fulham captain Cairney to see specialists as knee problems continue

Fulham captain Tom Cairney is being sent to a number of specialists about his persistent knee problem.

Cairney, who recently turned 30, struggled through the first part of the campaign after picking up an injury during a pre-season friendly.

But he last made an appearance for the Whites on 19 December, against Newcastle.

Cairney faces at least a few more weeks on the sidelines – and boss Scott Parker is concerned.

"He's struggling a little bit at the moment, Tom," Parker said.

"He's got an ongoing issue and it's becoming a little bit of a problem really, so we're going to refer him and get to see some specialists and get an opinion on that.

"I don't foresee Tom being around for probably a few weeks from now at the earliest, and I probably won't have a clearer picture on that until we really get some information back from some specialists."

The affected knee is not the same one Cairney injured during the 2017-18 season.

And at this stage it does not appear that he will have surgery.

"I don't think it's going to be the option," Parker explained.

"We just need to manage the pain, strengthen that area a little bit and see where he is.

"But at the moment it's proving a bit too painful and we need to work out whether there's other avenues we can take to speed up the process. We'll go from there really."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-captain-cairney-to-see-specialists-as-knee-problems-continue


WhiteJC

Burnley boss Sean Dyche not looking beyond Fulham in the FA Cup with home tie in last 16 on offer
Sean Dyche is only looking at one game at a time as fans hope for an FA Cup run.

The fourth and fifth round draws were made on the same night, due to the coronavirus pandemic, to supposedly "aid fixture scheduling".

And it threw up the tantalising prospect for either Fulham or Burnley, with the winners of Sunday's tie at Craven Cottage handed a home draw against Bournemouth or Crawley Town in the last 16.

The fifth round is the furthest Dyche has gone with Burnley, having reached the semi-final as a player with both Chesterfield in 1997 and Watford in 2003 - after beating Burnley 2-0 in the quarter-final.

Staying in the Premier League, with all the riches it brings, is paramount to clubs like Burnley, but they have not been to the semi-final since 1974, and their last final was in 1962.

Dyche would love a cup run, but openly accepts it is down on his lost of priorities: "I have had my own moments in the FA Cup, and I think it is a fantastic competition.

"But a club like Burnley, it is very important to continue the journey in the Premier League, and it is always going to be a priority at a club like Burnley, not just because of the kudos, but the financial side.

"That will be the focus, but when the whistle blows we want to win games."

Asked about the draw opening up potentially, he added: "I am not too worried about that.

"Football is doing what it can to deliver, and there are bound to be some things which are a bit awkward or that you question, like now with the schedule.

"Everyone is trying to play their part, and they've done that for the FA Cup, so that is the way it goes.

"The cup has many upsets and people suggest 'are you planning a cup run this year?' as if it is easy, and it is not.

"It is not easy designing a cup run and laying it out there.

"Our mentality will be the next game against Fulham, who are a good side with a pretty deep squad, so even if they make changes, we still think they will be a handy outfit.

"If we make changes we believe we can take on the game and win."

And changes are more than a possibility with midweek games at home to Aston Villa and Manchester City sandwiching a trip to Chelsea next Sunday: "It is a busy period and we all understand the reasons for these busy times and the way the games are crunched together.

"Some of the formatting I suggest could be different but we understand the TV companies want the games out there and the fans as well.

"We are going to take on the challenge. We have to get players recovered, getting them well and ready to go again.

"We have a lot of players coming back to fitness, maybe not Premier League fit but they are coming back to being injury free so that is important.

"We will have to look at what team we put out to make sure we get results whilst not losing players again because it is very important we do keep the players fit and not just for one game but games beyond this busy spell.

"We will get a roll call.

"I am not expecting to have Charlie (Taylor).

"By Saturday we will be looking at what we have available, which should be good.

"There are very good players who are not playing at the moment so I certainly believe in them.

"We will take a view as a staff on what side we can put together that we believe can win down at Fulham."



https://www.clitheroeadvertiser.co.uk/sport/football/burnley-boss-sean-dyche-not-looking-beyond-fulham-fa-cup-home-tie-last-16-offer-3109804

WhiteJC

Cairney to see specialists over knee injury

Fulham captain Tom Cairney is to consult several specialists over his persistent knee injury.

The Scottish playmaker has missed Fulham's last five fixtures having been sidelined after aggravating a knee problem he had first sustained during a mid-season friendly last year. Cairney, hasn't featured since Fulham's 1-1 draw at Newcastle before Christmas and, although the problem doesn't affect the same knee he injured in 2018, manager Scott Parker revealed this afternoon that the club will be seeking independent medical advice on how to manage the issue.

'He's struggling a little bit at the moment. He's got an ongoing issue and it's becoming a little bit of a problem really, so we're going to refer him and get to see some specialists and get an opinion on that. I don't foresee Tom being around for probably a few weeks from now at the earliest, and I probably won't have a clearer picture on that until we get some information back from some specialists'.

Parker appeared to rule out as surgery as a solution in his comments during today's press conference.

'I don't think it's going to be the option. We just need to manage the pain, strengthen that area a little bit and see where he is. But at the moment it's proving a bit too painful and we need to work out whether there's other avenues we can take to speed up the process. We'll go from there really.'

Cairney. who turned 30 on Wednesday, has made eleven appearances this season having battled a knee problem at the beginning of the campaign and had been left out of Parker's starting line-up in favour of loan signing Ruben Loftus-Cheek before his knee complaint left him unavailable for selection.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/cairney-to-see-specialists-over-knee-injury/